The New England Patriots find themselves in an intriguing position with the 10th most effective cap space in the NFL. While the focus might naturally lean towards enhancing their offensive arsenal, shoring up the defense-especially the front seven-remains a crucial task.
This past season, the Patriots ranked 22nd in sacks per game. Despite having a formidable interior duo in Milton Williams and Christian Barmore, the edge rush lacked that game-changing spark.
Harold Landry's dip in production can be chalked up to injuries, and with K'Lavon Chaisson heading into free agency, there’s a clear need for reinforcement. Anfernee Jennings and Elijah Ponder provide solid depth, but Jennings, in particular, doesn't bring much in terms of pass-rushing prowess.
In a recent analysis by Kristopher Knox, the Patriots are identified as a potential destination for some top-tier free agents. One name that stands out is John Franklin-Myers, a former New York Jet now with the Denver Broncos.
Franklin-Myers is an intriguing fit for the Patriots
The Broncos boast one of the league's most formidable defensive lines, featuring the dynamic edge duo of Nik Bonitto and Jonathan Cooper, and the stout interior presence of Zach Allen. With D.J.
Jones and Malcolm Roach recently securing extensions, and Sai'vion Jones poised for a return, the Broncos are well-stocked up front. This depth could make Franklin-Myers’ departure feasible, especially with Denver's nearly $29 million in cap space.
Knox also highlights the Bears as potential suitors for Franklin-Myers, describing him as a disruptive and versatile force rather than a pure quarterback hunter. His track record across different teams speaks volumes about his adaptability and impact.
Franklin-Myers entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick in 2018 with the Rams. He made an immediate mark by strip-sacking Tom Brady in Super Bowl LIII, although the Patriots recovered the ball.
After a surprising waiver, he was picked up by the Jets, where he recorded 17.5 sacks over four seasons. A trade to Denver saw him deliver his best sack numbers yet, with 7.0 and 7.5 sacks in consecutive seasons.
Given the Patriots' need for more QB pressure, Franklin-Myers could be a strategic addition.
Is John Franklin-Myers the right move?
While Franklin-Myers may not have the same pass-rushing flair as stars like Trey Hendrickson or Maxx Crosby, his strength lies in run defense and consistent disruption. Knox projects a three-year deal worth around $44 million, averaging $14.7 million annually. This could make him a more dependable choice than K'Lavon Chaisson, considering his sustained success.
For the Patriots, if the goal isn't to splurge on an elite edge rusher, Franklin-Myers offers a solid option. Though not in the top tier of edge defenders, he would be a valuable addition to the Patriots' defensive front, providing a boost to their pass rush and overall defensive depth.